Monica Brewer

Monica Brewer has been teaching in a Montessori school setting for nearly two decades. Inspired by her fourth-grade elementary school teacher Mrs. Williams, she devotes herself to providing a nurturing and inspirational environment to help children realize their full potential. She was first introduced to the Montessori-based curriculum at Mater Amoris Montessori. Learning the curriculum was a life changing experience that brought up mixed emotions. She drew a comparison from her learning experience as a child and felt deprived, but this ignited a strong desire to take part in implementing this unique style of education to children. Also, she has a wonderful rapport with the children using humor, talent and insight along with her training.

Valerie Valentine

Valerie Valentine has a degree from Strayer University in Computer Information Systems and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Early Childhood Education. She has multiple hours in professional staff development in Early Childhood Education and Montessori Assistance training. Valerie also has a Food Handler’s Certificate. She has lovingly worked with young children for over 20 years and has been working at The Children’s House for twelve years. She plays multiple roles as a classroom assistant, children’s morning crafts teacher and is in charge of the children’s lunch time. There is no one with greater patience, kindness or quick response to a situation than Valerie.

Jennifer Berry

Head of the Arts and Play Program

Jennifer Berry has training from Northern Virginia Community College in French, English history and math. She has multiple hours in professional development training as well as Montessori Assistant Training. Jennifer has been with The Children’s House since the doors opened in 1981. Jennifer is a true Renaissance woman, able to do most anything. All her artistic skills give the children a rich art program through sculpture, painting, collage and fantastic crafts.

Florence Akingbade

Arts and Play / Assistant Teacher

Florence Akingbade has a Career Diploma from Penn Foster Career School in Child Day Care Management. She has received multiple hours of professional development training as well as Montessori Assistant Training. While living in Nigeria, she worked with children for four years and also shared her Nigerian heritage with us. She has worked at The Children’s House for thirteen years. She is both a mother and grandmother. She is our best seamstress, and her skill has added enormously to the life of the Arts & Play Program.